Discovering Pampas Grass and How to Use It

Discover the effortless charm of pampas grass— a versatile décor essential that brings soft, elegant, feathery plumes to any space, indoors or out, for a touch of natural sophistication.

If you’ve been searching for décor that feels stylish, timeless, and easy to work with, pampas grass is an excellent place to start. It has become a favorite in homes, weddings, events, and even commercial spaces because it adds height, texture, and warmth without much effort.

Many decorators struggle to find accents that:

• Work with different interior styles

• Last a long time

• Don’t require constant maintenance

With so many options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and end up with pieces that don’t quite fit your space or don’t last as long as you’d hoped. Pampas grass, however, is surprisingly simple once you understand the basics.

This guide will walk you through what pampas grass is, the main types available (including artificial options), how to choose the right style for your space, and how to use and care for it—so you can decorate confidently and beautifully.

What Is Pampas Grass?

Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) is a hardy ornamental grass native to South America, especially Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. It’s best known for its:

• Tall stems that can reach up to 10 feet outdoors

• Feathery, plume-like tops that sway gracefully in the breeze

• Soft, cloud-like appearance that adds movement and texture

Outdoors, pampas grass is often planted in gardens, borders, or as a statement plant in landscaping. Indoors, the dried plumes are used in vases, arrangements, and décor accents to bring a natural, sculptural element into the home.

Because it thrives in a range of soils and climates (when grown outdoors) and keeps its beauty when dried, pampas grass has become a popular choice for anyone looking to add elegance and height to both gardens and interiors.

Varieties of Pampas Grass

Different varieties of pampas grass offer distinct colors, heights, and moods. Choosing the right type depends on where you’ll use it and what look you want to achieve.

Below are some of the most popular varieties and how they’re commonly used:

• White Pampas Grass

  • Height: approx. 6–10 ft (outdoors)

  • Plume Color: White or soft cream

  • Best For:

    • Indoor arrangements in tall vases

    • Weddings and special events

    • Minimal, neutral, or modern decor

• Pink Pampas Grass

  • Height: approx. 6–10 ft

  • Plume Color: Shades of blush or pink

  • Best For:

    • Romantic, feminine, or playful interiors

    • Floral setups and event backdrops

    • Adding a soft pop of color without being too bold

• Decorative Pampas (Various Colors)

  • Height: approx. 4–8 ft, often trimmed or cultivated for décor

  • Plume Color: Wide variety, including beige, latte, taupe, grey, or dyed hues

  • Best For:

    • Seasonal decorations

    • Table arrangements and centerpieces

    • Smaller spaces or layered arrangements

• Golden Pampas Grass

  • Height: approx. 6–10 ft

  • Plume Color: Golden or warm tan tones

  • Best For:

    • Landscaping and flower beds

    • Autumn-inspired interiors

    • Spaces with warm, earthy color palettes

Each variety brings a slightly different personality to your décor. White and cream tones feel airy and modern, while pink or golden hues add warmth and character.

Artificial Pampas Grass

If you love the look of pampas grass but want something completely low-maintenance, artificial pampas grass is an excellent option.

High-quality faux pampas can closely mimic the look and feel of natural plumes, often using soft, fluffy fibers in realistic colors. These stems are ideal for busy households, commercial spaces, or anyone who prefers long-lasting décor without ongoing care.

Benefits of Artificial Pampas Grass

Artificial pampas grass offers many practical advantages:

• Low Maintenance

  • No watering, trimming, or special care needed

  • Ideal for second homes, rentals, offices, or high-traffic areas

• Long-Lasting

  • Won’t wilt, decay, or shed as much as some natural varieties

  • Keeps its shape and color for years with minimal effort

• Versatile

  • Available in multiple colors, sizes, and styles

  • Easy to bend, trim, or arrange to fit different vases and layouts

• Allergy-Friendly

  • Great for sensitive environments where natural pollen or plant particles may cause irritation

If you want the look of pampas grass without thinking about humidity, sunlight, or occasional shedding, artificial options can be the perfect solution.

Pampas Grass Arrangements: How to Use It

Pampas grass is incredibly flexible. You can use it as a subtle accent or as a dramatic focal point. Here are some popular arrangement ideas and where they work best.

1. Floor Arrangements

• What They Are:
  Tall plumes styled in large floor vases or baskets.

• Best For:

  • Living rooms

  • Entryways

  • Empty corners that need height and structure

• Why They Work:
  Floor arrangements create vertical interest and help “anchor” a room. They’re perfect beside a sofa, TV unit, accent chair, or in a hallway.

2. Table Centerpieces

• What They Are:
  Medium-height arrangements in vases placed on dining tables, coffee tables, consoles, or side tables.

• Best For:

  • Dinner parties and gatherings

  • Everyday dining decor

  • Coffee tables and sideboards

• Why They Work:
  Table centerpieces add softness and personality at eye level. You can mix pampas with dried flowers, candles, or seasonal accents for a layered, welcoming display.

3. Wreaths

• What They Are:
  Pampas grass woven or wired into circular wreaths for doors, walls, or mantels.

• Best For:

  • Front doors

  • Seasonal decor (autumn, winter, or special events)

  • Interior wall accents

• Why They Work:
  Wreaths provide a sculptural, textural element and can be customized with ribbons, dried flowers, or holiday details to suit the season or occasion.

4. Wall Hangings and Art

• What They Are:
  Pampas plumes mounted on rods, hoops, or frames, or featured in printed artwork.

• Best For:

  • Empty wall spaces

  • Above beds, sofas, or consoles

  • Gallery wall additions

• Why They Work:
  These pieces bring the airy texture of pampas grass onto your walls, adding depth and interest without taking up floor or table space.

Tips for Choosing the Right Pampas Grass

If you’re new to pampas grass, start simple and build from there. Here are beginner-friendly tips to help you choose confidently.

• Match Colors to Your Palette

  • For neutral spaces, stick with creams, beiges, and soft whites.

  • For bolder interiors, consider dusty pinks, golds, or dyed tones that echo accent cushions, rugs, or artwork.

• Consider Height and Scale

  • Tall stems and large plumes suit bigger rooms and floor vases.

  • Shorter stems and smaller plumes work better on shelves, desks, and dining tables.

• Mix Varieties for Depth

  • Combine different heights, textures, and colors for a dynamic, layered look.

  • For example, pair white plumes with smaller, golden or pink stems.

• Choose Dried or Artificial for Easy Long-Term Use

  • Dried natural pampas offers authentic texture and feel.

  • Artificial pampas is best if you want a “set it and forget it” arrangement.

Starting with one or two key arrangements—like a tall floor vase and a small table centerpiece—can help you learn what you like before decorating your whole home.

Caring for Natural Pampas Grass

Natural dried pampas grass doesn’t need much care, but a few simple habits can help keep it beautiful for years.

• Keep It Dry

  • Place pampas in dry areas, away from bathrooms, kitchens, or damp corners.

  • Avoid contact with water, which can weaken stems and cause mold.

• Reduce Dust Buildup

  • Gently dust plumes every couple of weeks using a soft brush, feather duster, or low setting on a hairdryer (cool air).

  • This helps maintain their soft, fluffy appearance.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight

  • Bright, direct sunlight can cause fading over time.

  • Indirect light keeps the plumes looking vibrant longer.

With these minimal steps, natural pampas grass can remain a long-lasting, stylish part of your décor.

Where to Buy Pampas Grass

You can find pampas grass in many places, both locally and online:

• Local Options

  • Florists and dried flower shops

  • Garden centers or nurseries (for live plants or fresh-cut stems)

  • Craft and home decor stores

• Online Options

  • Specialty décor and floral retailers

  • Marketplaces with a wide range of stems, colors, and styles

For convenience and variety, explore:

• Artificial Pampas Grass – Best for zero-maintenance, long-lasting décor

• Colored Pampas Grass – Ideal if you want something beyond standard neutrals

• Pampas Grass Bunches – Great for DIY projects, custom arrangements, and mixing varieties

Pros and Cons of Pampas Grass

Like any décor element, pampas grass has its strengths and considerations.

Pros

• Versatile and stylish for almost any décor style

• Available in multiple colors, heights, and varieties

• Low-maintenance options (especially dried and artificial)

• Long-lasting, making it a cost-effective choice over time

Cons

• Natural types can shed, especially when newly arranged

• Some varieties prefer specific conditions outdoors

• Certain colors or styles may be harder to find locally

For most people, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, especially when using dried or artificial options indoors.

Bringing It All Together

In the end, pampas grass stands out as an exceptional, stylish choice that transforms spaces with timeless appeal. Its feathery plumes add height, softness, and natural beauty, whether you’re styling a corner of your living room, creating a wedding backdrop, or refreshing your entryway.

Minor drawbacks like occasional shedding are easy to manage compared to the many advantages: versatility, longevity, low maintenance, and the ability to complement almost any décor style—from boho to modern, rustic to minimalist.

If you’re ready to explore the possibilities, consider which variety, color, and format fits your space best.

Ready to find your perfect pampas grass?
Browse our Artificial Pampas Grass, Colored Pampas Grass, and Pampas Grass Arrangements today—
and bring natural elegance home with ease.

Tips Box:

🌿 Do: Select Based on Space – Choose height and color to match your room's vibe.

🧹 Do: Mix Varieties – Combine for textured, dynamic arrangements.

🛡️ Do: Opt for Artificial – If you want zero upkeep and allergy safety.

🌸 Do: Experiment – Start with small setups for indoor or outdoor use.

🚫 Don't: Ignore Scale – Avoid overwhelming small areas with tall plumes.

🚫 Don't: Forget Care – Natural types need dry spots to last.

🚫 Don't: Overlook Fading – Keep away from sun to preserve colors.

🚫 Don't: Limit Uses – Explore beyond decor for events and landscaping.